AN urgent appeal was made by the RSPCA today for horse owners to keep their animals secure after a young gelding died from extensive injuries in the Black Country.

It is believed the bay-coloured horse had got free and was hit by a large vehicle - possibly a van or lorry. The driver fled the scene without reporting it.

An RSPCA spokeswoman said an emergency call was received early yesterday morning after the accident in Bryce Road, Brierley Hill.

She said: "The horse, thought to be around two years old, was unstable on his feet and extremely disorientated.

"The injured animal was examined by a vet and given antibiotics and sedated but the prognosis was not good.

"A second vet examined the animal. The injuries were so severe it was thought the horse had been struck by a large vehicle.

"The vet diagnosed severe internal injuries and brain damage. It was thought the horse may have been blinded in the accident and he had many broken teeth. Tragically the horse had to be put to sleep to end his suffering."

RSPCA Inspector Martin Dolan said: ""This poor animal had horrendous injuries and it was upsetting to see such a strong animal so frightened and disorientated.

"Last year I dealt with a similar incident in Kingswinford and made a similar plea to horse owners to ensure their animals are kept in secure fields.

"Deaths such as this are avoidable. It is entirely the responsibility of every horse owner to ensure their animals are kept securely.

"The problem with straying horses roaming freely is notorious in the West Midlands and working together with the police and local authorities we are planning to tackle this serious issue.

"It would appear that someone hit this animal and drove on, not reporting it. I would also be interested to speak to the owner of this horse so appeal for them to get in contact."